I agree with most of the posts here. I would lean toward a newer "high-value" DAC vs an older so-called "class-a" rated expensive unit that has plumeted in price. I think you'll find that there are significant improvements to be found in modern digital electronics such that a modest DAC of today can outperform a mega buck DAC of only a couple years ago.
I owned the Cal Icon MKII and MSB Gold Link III DAC in the past, both are outstanding products. Some people prefer the EVS Millenium and I've read great things about the Assemblage 3.1 DAC. The theme is the same.... high-value modern DAC over older dated technology. Amps and preamps haven't changed a great deal in the past decade but digital electronics keep improving noticeably.
I owned the Cal Icon MKII and MSB Gold Link III DAC in the past, both are outstanding products. Some people prefer the EVS Millenium and I've read great things about the Assemblage 3.1 DAC. The theme is the same.... high-value modern DAC over older dated technology. Amps and preamps haven't changed a great deal in the past decade but digital electronics keep improving noticeably.